Using a combination of different technologies from resin 3D printing to a microscope powered by a Nokia N8 smartphone, the creative animation team at Aardman have revealed how they are creating the microscopic stop motion movie Dot.
Using a 3D printed character that is just 9 mm tall, the animation team uses retrofitted equipment to computer control the animation sequences. Watch the video below to learn more about the making of Dot. “Here’s a little film that takes you behind the scenes at Aardman. It reveals what went into making the world’s smallest character animated film and how it was shot using a Nokia N8.”
The Technology Behind Dot
The creation of Dot is a testament to the innovative use of technology in animation. The Nokia N8, known for its 12-megapixel camera and Carl Zeiss optics, was a crucial component in capturing the intricate details of the tiny 3D printed character. The CellScope technology, invented by Professor Fletcher, allowed the team to attach a microscope to the Nokia device, enabling them to film at a microscopic level. This combination of high-resolution imaging and microscopic precision brought Dot’s world to life in a way that had never been seen before.
Resin 3D printing played a significant role in the production process. The 9 mm tall character of Dot was created using this technology, which allowed for the creation of highly detailed and precise models. The use of resin 3D printing ensured that even the smallest features of Dot were accurately represented, adding to the overall realism and charm of the animation.
Challenges and Innovations
Creating a stop motion film at such a microscopic scale presented numerous challenges. One of the primary difficulties was the need for extreme precision in both the creation of the character and the animation process. The team had to develop custom rigs and software to control the movements of the tiny character accurately. This required a deep understanding of both the mechanical and digital aspects of animation.
Another challenge was lighting. Due to the small size of the character, traditional lighting techniques were not feasible. The team had to experiment with various lighting setups to ensure that Dot was adequately illuminated without casting harsh shadows or causing glare. This involved using specialized lighting equipment and techniques to achieve the desired effect.
The animation process itself was painstakingly slow. Each frame required meticulous attention to detail, with the team making minute adjustments to the character’s position and expression. This level of precision was necessary to ensure that the final animation was smooth and lifelike. Despite these challenges, the team at Aardman successfully brought Dot to life, creating a captivating and visually stunning film.
“Professor Fletcher’s invention of the CellScope, which is a Nokia device with a microscope attachment, was the inspiration for a teeny-tiny film created by Sumo Science at Aardman. It stars a 9mm girl called Dot as she struggles through a microscopic world. All the minuscule detail was shot using CellScope technology and a Nokia N8, with its 12-megapixel camera and Carl Zeiss optics.”
Source: Animation Boss: Adafruit
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